A coalition of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Gombe, under the auspices of the Advocacy for Disability Act Cluster (ADAC), has called on the state government to domesticate the disability act.

The coalition made the call in a statement by Grace Jerry, executive director of Inclusive Friends Association and ADAC Cluster Anchor, on Monday in Gombe, as part of activities to commemorate Nigeria’s Democracy Day.

“As a community of Persons with Disabilities in Gombe State celebrates Democracy Day, we call on the state government to consider the need to sign the Gombe State Disability Law and establishment of Disability Commission,” the coalition said.

It said the call had become imperative given the numerous benefits of such domestication on protecting the rights of persons with disability and the need to ensure inclusiveness.

According to the coalition, one of the proofs of functional democracy is the protection of the rights of all citizens towards ensuring a better society free of discrimination and marginalisation.

“The United Nations estimates 15 per cent of the world’s population to be persons with one form of disability or the other.

“It is safe to say that over 550,000 persons in Gombe State have one form of disability or the other.

“With this huge population, it is imperative to consider legislation that will protect the rights, dignity, and respect of persons with disabilities,” the coalition said.

While congratulating Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State on his re-election and other members of the state house of assembly, the coalition urged appointed leaders to consolidate efforts towards improving the lives of PWDs.

(NAN)